An 8-year-old boy, Jeremiah King Hicks, tragically lost his life after being struck by a vehicle on Saturday in North Long Beach.
The incident occurred around 4:39 p.m. near Paramount Boulevard and 56th Street, a block north of Davenport Park. According to the Long Beach Post, Hicks ran into the street and was hit by a 2020 Honda Civic driven by a 27-year-old man from Paramount. The driver remained at the scene and cooperated with the police, who do not believe speed, distracted driving, or impairment were factors in the crash.
Despite the police’s conclusion, Hicks’ mother, Monique Boochie, is questioning the investigation’s findings and is calling for urgent street safety improvements. The family lives near the crash site, and Hicks was taken to a hospital where he succumbed to his injuries. Long Beach Police Chief Wally Hebeish expressed condolences, stating, “Our hearts are with this young child’s family, and everyone affected by this terrible traffic collision.”
This incident marks the 23rd traffic fatality in Long Beach this year, highlighting ongoing concerns about road safety in the area. Last year, Long Beach experienced its deadliest year on the roads since 1990, with 56 traffic-related fatalities. The Press Telegram reports that the city has been striving to reduce traffic deaths, with a goal of eliminating all fatal crashes by 2026. However, progress has been slow, and city officials have acknowledged the need for more rapid street improvements.
In response to the rising number of traffic fatalities, Long Beach is working on installing speed cameras as part of a state pilot program approved in 2023. Traffic safety advocates have criticized the slow rollout of these measures, and the City Council has called for a plan to expedite street improvements.
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